System and method for a flameless tracer/marker utilizing an electronic light source

ABSTRACT

An electronic light source system is employed to create a flame-less tracer for a munitions projectile. The electronic light source system may be positioned in various locations and combinations of locations on a projectile (e.g., front, back, side, etc.) to enhance visibility of the projectile during flight. The electronic light source system provides a light source on the projectile that is visible to an observer at various viewing angles throughout the projectile flight without the environmental or safety issues presented by tracers using pyrotechnic materials. After assembly, the present system is encapsulated in glass or clear plastic to G-harden the present system, enabling the present system to sustain the large loads and stresses induced by gun launch. The present system may comprise a variety of light sources such as, for example, lasers, high output light-emitting diodes (LEDs), strobe lights, etc. The present system is capable of flashing the light sources at a variety of frequencies (e.g., 5 Hz, 20 Hz, etc.) to further attract the human eye. In addition, the present system presents the substantial benefit of being able to project light at various wavelengths outside the visible spectrum.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of provisionalapplication 60/320,042, filed Mar. 24, 2003, the entire file wrappercontents of which provisional application are herein incorporated byreference as though fully set forth at length.

FEDERAL RESEARCH STATEMENT

The inventions described herein may be manufactured, used, and licensedby, or for the U.S. Government for U.S. Government purposes.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to munitions employed for training and tacticalpurposes. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tracerfor small, medium and large caliber ammunition, mortar and canon caliberammunition employing an electronic light source capable of providingflight path trace and site identification.

2. Background of the Invention

In both military and non-military organizations, training and tacticalexercises commonly employ materials capable of providing a visible traceof a projectile's trajectory after firing from a weapon. This visibletrace, or tracer, assures that the projectile has been delivered to itsdesired target site and that its flight path has been traced from guntube to target.

One requirement for the tracer is that an observer should be able to seethe tracer either during daylight or nighttime. Current tracertechnology employs pyrotechnic compositions comprised of pyrotechnicmaterials that burn and create light. These pyrotechnic compositions aretypically loaded into the back end of the projectile, or round. Afterthe projectile is fired from the weapon, the tracer ignites and burnscreating a visible light that can be seen as the projectile travels toits target. The observer and/or gunner can consequently see the trace ofthe projectile flight. If necessary, the observer can then adjust theweapon so that the next round fired can impact the desired targetlocation. Exemplary pyrotechnic compositions suitable for such purposeare strontium nitrate, magnesium powder, potassium nitrate, bariumnitrate, and the like.

Although such conventional methods have met with some degree of success,workers in the art have encountered certain difficulties. For example,tracer ammunition has frequently resulted in fires on training rangesthat have been attributed to energetic material tracers contacting andburning surrounding brush and other ground material. These fires incuradditional costs in extinguishing the fires and also interrupt trainingexercise. Consequently, training exercises may be extended to replacetime lost, thereby incurring additional expense. Furthermore, materialsused in pyrotechnic tracers are environmentally unfriendly. Thesematerials often pose environmental hazards to training areas as a resultof toxic emissions into the atmosphere and such materials leaching intoground water. Still further, tracer materials commonly in use are impactand pressure sensitive. Since projectiles housing the pyrotechnicmaterials may be transported, the nature and explosive properties ofthese pyrotechnic materials add significant costs and danger topersonnel.

Tracers have also utilized chemiluminescent materials. Thechemiluminescent materials are similar to conventionalchemiluminescents, however, certain ingredients and manufacturingtechniques were developed to obtain the capability of long duration (upto several hours for marker application) and high light intensitytracing and marking capability. The oxalate component employed is in aliquid (contained in glass vials) and in a powdered form; when mixedwith a liquid peroxide, a non-toxic slurry is formed that isnon-flammable and biodegradable. In addition, the chemiluminescent canprovide a visible or IR light source. The IR light source provides astealth capability such that only soldiers with IR vision equipment cansee the trace or mark.

Although this technology has proven to be useful, it would be desirableto present additional improvements. A tracer and marker design that doesnot involve a flaming tracer, an environmentally damaging chemical, theloading of chemicals into a projectile, or the transporting and handlingof projectiles housing chemicals, pyrotechnics, or energetic materialswould be desirable. Furthermore, a light source that can be adjusted tolast for several seconds up to several months would be desirable. Theneed for such a system has heretofore remained unsatisfied.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention satisfies this need, and presents a system and anassociated method (collectively referred to herein as “the system” or“the present system”) for utilizing an electronic light source in aflameless tracer and/or marker for use in small, medium and largecaliber ammunition. The present system may be positioned in variouslocations and combinations of locations on a projectile (e.g., front,back, side, etc.) and inside a translucent or transparent projectile toenhance visibility of the projectile during flight and/or deliver a markon a target. The goal of the present system is to provide a light sourceon or inside the projectile that is visible to an observer at variousviewing angles throughout the projectile flight without theenvironmental or safety issues presented by conventional tracers.Depending on the need, the light source of the present system could marka target with trace of flight, mark a target without trace of flight, orprovide trace without mark. These options are controlled by theprojectile design.

The present system is environmentally friendly and involves no chemicalmixtures. The present system is not flammable or explosive, insteadrelying on a light that is powered by electricity. The present systemcomprises a light source, an optional driver circuit, and a powersupply. These components are equivalent in price to the pyrotechnicmaterials used in present flame tracers. The present system is easilyconfigurable to fit a variety of both tactical and training rounds.After assembly, the present system is encapsulated in glass or clearplastic or epoxy if needed to G-harden the present system, enabling thepresent system to sustain the large loads and stresses induced by gunlaunch. All components used in the present system are available inelectronic stores except for microminiaturized or MEMs components thatare currently being developed for the U.S. Government.

The present system may comprise a variety of light sources such as, forexample, lasers, high output light-emitting diodes (LEDs), strobelights, laser diodes, photo diodes, etc. The present system is capableof flashing the light sources at a variety of frequencies (e.g., 5 Hz,20 Hz, etc.) to further attract the human eye. The light sources may bepurchased at electronic stores at designated frequency, intensity, andwavelengths. Furthermore, the present system presents the substantialbenefit of being able to project light at various wavelengths outsidethe visible spectrum. Some light sources that may be used by the presentsystem are available, for example, in infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV),and visible wavelengths and at various frequencies. Consequently, thepresent system comprising light sources such as IR or UV could be usedin tactical situations such that the tracer and/or marker is visibleonly to personnel using IR night vision, UV detectors, etc. Furthermore,the present system can provide a light source in the visiblewavelengths, allowing troops to see colors that have specific tacticalmeaning. In addition, the present system can be configured to provide atracer with no mark, a trace with mark, or no trace but a mark on atarget. The configuration is determined by the need of the soldier usingthe item.

The light created by the light source may be focused or directed in amanner to enhance its visibility to the observer. For example, a plasticor composite reflective cap, mirror(s), or reflector(s) in the path of alight beam may intermittently cast a bright beam to wider angles.Furthermore, the light source may be placed in different locations onthe projectile to enhance visibility. These and other methods ofenhancing the visibility of the light generated by the present systemmay be used singly or in combination in the present system.

The present system comprises a power source used to provide power forthe tracer or marker light. This power source may comprise, for example,capacitors, batteries, mechanical generators, electric gel, or fuelcells. Exemplary mechanical generators suitable for use in the presentsystem comprise vibrating impellors, stator impellors, or flywheels.These and other power sources may be used singly or in combination inthe present system.

In an alternative embodiment, components of the present system availablein industry may be miniaturized, microminiaturized, or made into a MEMsto form a miniature or MEMs flashing light or non-flashing light. Theseminiature, microminiaturized, or MEMs lights may be delivered by aprojectile to mark targets, personnel, or areas. Exemplary deliveryprojectiles comprise small, medium or large caliber projectiles, i.e.,60, 81 or 120 mm mortars, 20, 40, 90 mm grenades, 105 or 120 mm tank or105 to 155 mm artillery ammunition. In addition, if the projectile ismade of a transparent or translucent material these lights would providea trace of the flight path of the projectile. The projectile may carryand deliver to a target dozens, hundreds, or thousands of miniatureflashing lights in a sticky gelatin-like substance. Upon impact, thesticky gelatin substance would splatter on the target and disperse theminiature, microminiaturized, or MEMs flashing light around the targetarea. The size of the payload and amount of dispersion may be controlleddepending on the application. These miniature or MEMS lights may castvisible light, infrared light, UV, or combinations of spectrums to suitthe application.

The miniature, microminiaturized, or MEMS lights in a gelatin-likesubstance may be used, for example, to permit identification of impactareas. In addition, missiles and smart munitions that contain infraredor UV seeking sensors can home in on a target marked by miniature orMEMS lights and thereby guide a munition to its target. Furthermore,miniature light sources emitting either visible, infrared, UV light, ora combination of these spectrums may be delivered by projectiles toilluminate, for example, caves, equipment, booby traps, enemy vehicles,projectile impact areas, personnel, etc. In addition, infrared or UVlight sources provided by the miniature or MEMS lights would allowpersonnel to look into a cave with infrared or UV (night vision)detection devices to a much greater depth than previously possible.Current night detection devices are only capable of detectingtemperature differences. Booby traps that are deeply embedded in a caveand at the same temperature as the cave would not be detected by nightvision devices unless marked, for example, with a miniaturized flashinglight. Further, flashing miniature or MEMS lights may be used to directa unit in battle to concentrate their projectiles into a marked area.This area would be marked by visible and/or UV, and/or infraredminiature, microminiaturized, or MEMS light when dispersed from aprojectile. This visual signal is an effective method to get theattention of soldiers during battle because battle noise interferes withcommunication. In this manner, the fighting unit is more efficient indefeating an enemy.

As mentioned, a variety of electronic light sources may be used in thepresent system to provide a trace to target of the projectile flightand/or a mark of the target. Exemplary light sources comprise lasers,high output light-emitting diodes (LEDs), strobe lights, etc.

For trace-only applications of the present system, a device to producelight is constructed of laser diodes, LEDs, strobes, etc. and fit intothe rear or side of the projectile. The device may be attached to asetback, setforward, or spin activated battery that activates only whenthese forces are achieved. Setback is the force exerted on a projectileas the projectile begins to move when being fired from a gun. Setbackforces are typically extremely high and have values from 10 to 70,000G's. Setforward forces are usually 1-20% of setback. Spin typicallyexceeds 60 revolutions/minute depending on the ammunition; thereforespin can typically be initiated only when fired. An alternate embodimentwould use a small battery in a sleeve as a power source and activationswitch. The battery slides in place when setback forces occur andswitches on the light device. The device provides high intensity lightwhile the projectile travels downrange to provide a trace to target.

In addition, the battery may contain the chemicals that provide electricpower in separate compartments separated by a membrane. When theprojectile is fired the membrane breaks and the projectile spin mixesthe chemicals causing the power to be available to the light source.

Present systems that provide trace and mark may utilize a setbackbattery or battery in a sleeve combined with the light-emitting source(i.e. LED, miniaturized LED, or MEMS device with LED) and combined withan optional flashing unit. These devices are placed inside a transparentor translucent projectile. Only the part of the projectile that containsthe devices needs to be transparent or translucent. A sticky substance(i.e. silicon gel) in a container such as glass, plastic vials, plasticbags, etc. are contained in the projectile to help the devices stick toand mark a target. The light-emitting devices are also enclosed in thecontainer. The glass vials may be held apart by a spider to keep theglass vials from hitting each other and breaking. The spider is securedto the projectile so that the vials do not break. If the devices areplaced in a plastic bag and the sticky substance is placed in a plasticbag then the bags are designed to be extremely tough and will only breakwhen encountering the setback, setforward, or spin force. These bags areadded directly to the projectile until the projectile is full.

Upon setback, the setback battery activates and powers the highintensity light-emitting devices. If a battery in a sleeve is utilized,the battery slides into position after setback and powers thelight-emitting devices. The vials or bags shatter and the light-emittingdevices mix with the sticky materials. The light-emitting devicescontinue to emit a high intensity light during the projectile flight andprovide a trace to target. Upon projectile impact with the target theplastic projectile breaks and scatters the sticky light-emitting deviceson the target, marking the target. The sticky material cushions andprotects the light-emitting devices as they scatter on the target andhelps them to adhere to the target. The miniaturized or MEMs LEDs,strobes, laser diodes, etc. are manufactured to be rugged and to survivethe impact at target. The high intensity devices can provide a visible,IR, and/or UV high intensity light mark on target. Depending on thebattery, the light can be set to last for a few seconds or up to amonth. The battery does not have to be part of the marking device whenusing photo diodes since an energy source such as a laser directed atthe photo diodes from a distance will light up the photo diodes.

To provide a mark only, the plastic projectile may be made of an opaquesubstance that does not allow the light to pass.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The various features of the present invention and the manner ofattaining them will be described in greater detail with reference to thefollowing description, claims, and drawings, wherein reference numeralsare reused, where appropriate, to indicate a correspondence between thereferenced items, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is comprised of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D and represents a cutawayview of a large caliber tank projectile showing various locations ofelectronic tracers in an electronic light source system assembly and anoptional transparent or translucent plastic or composite cap thatprotects the electronic tracer and helps scatter the light;

FIG. 2 is comprised of FIGS. 2A and 2B and represents a cutaway view ofa small, medium, and large caliber Kinetic Energy (KE) projectileshowing optional locations for the electronic tracer, the location of anoptional transparent or translucent plastic or composite cap, and theelectronic tracer assembly attached to the side and rear of theprojectile with the protective cap attached;

FIG. 3 is comprised of FIGS. 3A and 3B and represents a cutaway view ofa mortar projectile showing optional locations for the electronictracer, the location of an optional transparent or translucent plasticor composite cap, and the electronic tracer assembly attached to theside and rear of the projectile with the optional protective capattached;

FIG. 4 is comprised of FIGS. 4A and 4B and represents a cutaway view ofa 40 mm projectile 400 showing the location for the electronic tracer,the location of an optional transparent or translucent plastic orcomposite cap, and the electronic tracer assembly attached to the rearof the 40 mm projectile with the optional protective cap attached;

FIG. 5 is comprised of FIGS. 5A and 5B and represents a cutaway view ofan artillery projectile 500 showing optional locations for theelectronic tracer and the location of an optional transparent ortranslucent plastic or composite cap, and the electronic tracer assemblyattached to the side and rear of the projectile with the optionalprotective cap attached;

FIG. 6 is a cutaway view of a setback battery or battery in a sleevedesign that may be used as part of the electronic tracer assembly ofFIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5;

FIG. 7 is a process flow chart illustrating a method of operation of asetback-activated battery of FIG. 6 for the electronic tracer of FIGS.1, 2, 3, 4, and 5;

FIG. 8 is a cutaway view of the electronic tracer attached to the rearof the projectile representative of the electronic tracers of FIGS. 1,2, 3, 4, and 5;

FIG. 9 is a cutaway view of an electronic tracer attached to the side ofthe projectile representative of the electronic tracers of FIGS. 1, 2,3, and 5;

FIG. 10 is a cutaway view of the optional transparent or translucentplastic or composite cap;

FIG. 11 is comprised of FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C and represents a cutawayview of a marker light source device, light source devices suspended ina sticky medium in a bag, and light source devices suspended in a stickymedium in glass vials;

FIG. 12 is comprised of FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C and represents a cutawayview of a mortar projectile that contains the miniature,microminiaturized, or MEMS electronic light source markers in a stickymedium;

FIG. 13 is comprised of FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C and represents a cutawayview of a 40 mm projectile, which contains the miniature,microminiaturized, or MEMS electronic light source markers in a stickymedium; and

FIG. 14 is comprised of FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C and represents a cutawayview of a tank or artillery projectile, which contains the miniature,microminiaturized, or MEMS electronic light source markers in a stickymedium.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 (FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1C) is a cutaway view of a large caliber tankprojectile 100 showing various locations for an electronic tracerassembly. The electronic tracer assembly that attaches to the side ofthe projectile is an electronic tracer 110A. The electronic tracerassembly that attaches to the rear of the projectile is an electronictracer 120A.

A plastic or composite protective cap 130A attaches to the rear of theprojectile. Protective cap 130A scatters the light from the electronictracer 120A, enhancing observation of the projectile in flight.Protective cap 130A may also contain miniature reflectors or mirrors(not shown) to help scatter the light emitted by the electronic tracer120A.

FIG. 1A is an exploded view of the projectile 100 showing where theelectronic tracers 110A, 120A would be attached. Either electronictracer 120A or electronic tracer 110A may be attached to projectile 100.Alternatively, both electronic tracer 120A and electronic tracer 110Amay be attached to projectile 100 for optimal visibility by an observerof the in-flight projectile 100.

FIG. 1B shows the electronic tracer 120A and protective cap 130Aattached to the rear of the projectile 100.

FIG. 1C shows the electronic tracer 110A attached to the side of theprojectile 100.

FIG. 1D shows the electronic tracer 120A and protective cap 130Aattached to the rear of projectile 100 and electronic tracer 110Aattached to the side of the projectile 100. Electronic tracer 120A andprotective cap 130A may be attached to projectile 100 using either epoxyor a threaded connection (not shown). Electronic tracer 110A may beattached to projectile 100 using epoxy (not shown).

FIG. 2 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) is a cut-away view of a small, medium, and largecaliber in-flight KE projectile 200 (projectile 200). FIG. 2A is acut-away exploded view of projectile 200. An electronic tracer 120B maybe attached on the rear of projectile 200. An electronic tracer 110B maybe attached to the side of projectile 200.

An optional protective cap 130B made of transparent or translucentplastic or composite material may be attached to the electronic tracer120B. The protective cap 130B keeps gun gases and contaminates away fromthe electronic tracer 120B. The protective cap 130B helps to reflect thelight in many directions, making it easier for an observer to see theprojectile 200 in flight. The protective cap 130B may also comprisesmall mirrors or reflectors (not shown) to help reflect the light.

FIG. 2B is a cutaway view showing the electronic tracer 120B attached tothe rear of projectile 200 and the electronic tracer 110B attached tothe side of projectile 200. Either electronic tracer 120B or electronictracer 110B may be attached to projectile 200. Alternatively, bothelectronic tracer 120B and electronic tracer 110B may be attached toprojectile 200 for optimal visibility of the in-flight projectile 200 byan observer. Electronic tracer 120B and protective cap 130B may beattached to projectile 200 using either epoxy or a threaded connection(not shown). Electronic tracer 110B may be attached to projectile 200using epoxy (not shown).

FIG. 3 (FIGS. 3A, 3B) is a cut-away view of a mortar projectile 300(projectile 300) utilizing electronic tracer 120C and electronic tracer110C. FIG. 3A is a cut-away exploded view of a mortar projectile 300(projectile 300). Electronic tracer 120C may be attached on the rear ofprojectile 300. Electronic tracer 110C may be attached to the side ofprojectile 300. An optional protective cap 130C made of transparent ortranslucent plastic or composite material may be attached to theelectronic tracer 120C.

The protective cap 130C keeps gun gases and contaminates away from theelectronic tracer 120C. The protective cap 130C helps to reflect thelight in many directions, making it easier for an observer to see theprojectile 300 in flight. The protective cap 130C may also contain smallmirrors or reflectors (not shown) to help reflect the light. FIG. 3B isa cutaway view showing the electronic tracer 120C attached to the rearof projectile 300 and electronic tracer 110C attached to the side ofprojectile 300.

Either electronic tracer 120C or electronic tracer 110C may be attachedto projectile 300. Alternatively, both electronic tracer 120C andelectronic tracer 110C may be attached to projectile 300 for optimalvisibility of the in-flight projectile 300 by an observer. Electronictracer 120C and protective cap 130C may be attached to projectile 300using either epoxy or threaded connection (not shown). Electronic tracer110C may be attached to projectile 300 using epoxy (not shown).

FIG. 4 (FIGS. 4A, 4B) is a diagram of a 40 mm projectile 400 (projectile400) utilizing electronic tracer 120D. 4A is a cut-away exploded view ofprojectile 400. Electronic tracer 120D may be attached on the rear ofprojectile 400. An optional protective cap 130D made of transparent ortranslucent plastic or composite material may be attached to theelectronic tracer 120D.

The protective cap 130D keeps gun gases and contaminates away from theelectronic tracer 120D. The protective cap 130D helps to reflect thelight in many directions, making it easier for an observer to see theprojectile 400 in flight. The protective cap 130D may also contain smallmirrors or reflectors (not shown) to help reflect the light. FIG. 4B isa cutaway view showing the electronic tracer 120D attached to the rearof projectile 400 and optional protective cap 130D attached toelectronic tracer 120D. The electronic tracer 120D and protective cap130D may be attached to projectile 400 using either epoxy or threadedconnection (not shown).

FIG. 5A (FIGS. 5A, 5B) is a cut-away view an artillery projectile 500(projectile 500) utilizing electronic tracer 120E and electronic tracer110E. FIG. 5A is a cut-away exploded view of projectile 500. Electronictracer 120E may be attached on the rear of projectile 500. Electronictracer 110E may be attached to the side of projectile 500.

An optional protective cap 130E made of transparent or translucentplastic or composite material may be attached to the electronic tracer120E. The protective cap 130E keeps gun gases and contaminates away fromthe electronic tracer 120E. The protective cap 130E helps to reflect thelight in many directions, making it easier for an observer to see theprojectile 500 in flight.

The protective cap 130E may also contain small mirrors or reflectors(not shown) to help reflect the light. FIG. 5B is a cutaway view showingthe electronic tracer 120E attached to the rear of projectile 500 andelectronic tracer 110E attached to the side of projectile 500. Eitherthe electronic tracer 120E or the electronic tracer 110E may be attachedto projectile 500. Alternately, both the electronic tracer 120E and theelectronic tracer 110E may be attached to projectile 500 for optimalvisibility of the in-flight projectile 500 by an observer. Electronictracer 120E and protective cap 130E may be attached using either epoxyor threaded connection (not shown). Electronic tracer 110E may beattached to projectile 500 using epoxy (not shown).

FIG. 6 is a cutaway view of a setback-activated battery 600 (also knownas battery in a sleeve 600). The setback-activated battery 600 isreadily available on the commercial market. Battery 610 is held in asleeve 605. Upon setback, set-forward, or spin, the battery 610 movesuntil slots 615, 620 engage tabs 645, 650 and lock the battery 610 inplace.

The terminals 625, 630 contact the terminals 635, 640 providing power toterminals 635, 640. The electronic tracers 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120Eand electronic tracers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110E of FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5(FIGS. 1 through 5) that are connected to setback-activated battery 600are now activated and produce the light needed. Setback force is theforce applied to the projectile upon shot start. Set-forward force isthe force that is exerted on the projectile after it leaves the gun.

Spin is imparted to the projectile either by rifling in the gun tube orby the cant angle on the fins of the projectile. The setback andset-forward forces and spin imparted to projectiles 100, 200, 300, 400,500 of FIGS. 1 through 5 are substantial; consequently, battery 610 willnot lock into place and provide power to terminals 635, 640 under normalor rough handling of the projectiles of FIGS. 1 through 5.Setback-activated battery 600 will only activate when the projectile isfired from the gun.

Battery 610 may also comprise chemicals common in industry that areseparated by a membrane (not shown). Upon gun launch, the membraneruptures and the chemicals mix providing electric power as needed.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 of operation of the electronic tracers120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and electronic tracers 110A, 110B, 110C,110E of FIGS. 1 through 5 utilizing a setback-activated battery 600 asan exemplary power source. Gun launch occurs at block 701. During high Gforces in the acceleration (setback), slight deceleration (set-forward),or spin, the chemicals mix in the battery 610 providing electricalpower. In block 702, the battery slides over tabs 645, 650.

When the tabs 645, 650 line up with the recesses 615, 620 of chemicalbattery 610, the battery 610 locks into position as shown in block 703.The battery terminals 625, 630 of battery 610 contact the terminals 635,640 of the sleeve 605 (block 704). In block 705, power is now suppliedto the light producing source such as LEDs, strobes, laser diodes, etc.or an optional driver circuit. The light source of the electronictracers 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E or electronic tracers 110A, 100B,110C, 110E now emit light and the flight of the projectile can be seen.

An optional driver circuit is commonly available. The optional drivercircuit is only needed if adjustability of the intensity and flashingfrequency of the electronic tracers 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E orelectronic tracers 110A, 100B, 110C, 110E is desired. Off the shelfcommercial light producing LEDs, strobes, laser diodes, etc. haveflashers and intensity controlling devices already built into theirminiaturized products that produce UV, visible, and IR light at anywavelength needed.

These light producing items are readily added to the electronic tracers120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and electronic tracers 110A, 100B, 110C,110E at extremely low cost. Building or adding the driver circuit isoptional since it adds to the cost of the electronic tracer.

FIG. 8 is a cutaway view of an electronic tracer 120 representative ofthe electronic tracers 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E attached to the rearof projectiles 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 of FIGS. 1 through 5. Theelectronic tracer 120 comprises light-emitting sources 122 such as LEDs,strobes, laser diodes, etc. that are attached to housing 121A.Electronic tracer 120 comprises a setback-activated battery 600A similarto setback-activated battery 600 sized to fit this application.

The optional driver circuit may be placed inside of housing 121A. Thelight-emitting source 122 may be attached to the housing 121A withepoxy. The leads (not shown) in the back of light-emitting source 122contact the terminals 635, 640 of setback-activated battery 600. Aftergun launch, power flows from the terminals 635, 640 to thelight-emitting source 122. The light-emitting source 122 beginsoperation and emits light, providing a trace to target from the rear ofthe projectiles 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 of FIGS. 1 through 5.

FIG. 9 is a cutaway view of the electronic tracer 110 representative ofelectronic tracers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110E that is attached to the sideof the projectiles 100, 200, 300, 500 of FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 5. Theelectronic tracer 110 comprises light-emitting sources 122 such as LEDs,strobes, laser diodes, etc. that are attached to housing 121B.Electronic tracer 110 comprises a setback-activated battery 600B similarto setback-activated battery 600 sized to fit this application.

The optional driver circuit may be placed inside of housing 121B ifneeded. The light-emitting source 110 may be attached to the housing121B with epoxy. The leads (not shown) in the back of light-emittingsource contact the terminals 635, 640 of setback-activated battery 600.After gun launch, power flows from terminals 635, 640 to thelight-emitting source 110. The light-emitting source 122 beginsoperation and emits light, providing a trace to target from the side ofthe projectiles 100, 200, 300, 500 of FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 5.

FIG. 10 is a cutaway view of the protective cap 130, representative ofprotective caps 130A, 130B, 130C, 130D, 130E. This optional protectivecap 130 may be made of transparent or translucent plastic or composite.The protective cap 130 is attached to the electronic tracer 120 withepoxy or a threaded connection (not shown). Miniaturized mirrors orreflectors (not shown) may be attached to or be part of the protectivecap 130 to help reflect or disperse the light in many directions to helpan observer see the projectile 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 in flight. Theprotective cap 130 helps to protect the electronic tracers 120 frompropellant gases and contaminates.

Another embodiment of a light-emitting source marks targets by givingoff UV, visible, and/or IR light. FIG. 11 (FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C) is adiagram illustrating the use of a light-emitting source 122 in a targetmarking application. FIG. 11A is a cutaway view of a light-emittingsource 122 such as an LED, strobe, laser diodes, etc. that may be usedto mark a target. Light-emitting source 122 comprises a light-emittingdevice 123 and setback-activated battery 600C sized to fit theapplication.

Both light-emitting device 123 and setback-activated battery 600C arecommonly available in electronic stores and in industry in miniaturizedversions. The U.S. government is currently investing inmicrominiaturization of these devices. FIG. 11B is a cutaway view ofpackage 1210 comprising the light-emitting sources 122 surrounded by asticky substance 1212 such as silicone liquid or gel (commonly availablein industry).

Package 1210 is made of a plastic or composite bag 1211 that holds thelight-emitting sources 122 and sticky liquid or gel 1212. The package1210 may be placed into projectiles 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 anddelivered to the intended target that will be marked. If the projectile100, 200, 300, 400, 500 is made of transparent or translucent material,the light-emitting sources 122 will also provide a trace to target.

FIG. 11C is a cutaway view of an alternate containment system for thelight-emitting source 122, package 1220. The light-emitting source 122is placed in sealed glass vials 1222 (glass vials are commonlymanufactured in industry by melting the ends of glass tubes) andsurrounded by sticky liquid or gel 1212. The vials are held apart by aplastic or composite spider 1221.

The amount of light-emitting sources 122 that can be placed in package1210 or package 1220 will depend on size of the projectile and thereforethe size of the package 1210 or package 1220. In addition, the size oflight-emitting source 122 will determine how many light-emitting sources122 can be placed in the package. Industry manufactured off-the-shelflight-emitting devices are currently approximately {fraction (1/8)} to ½inch in length.

Microminiaturized and MEMS light-emitting sources 122 are currentlybeing researched and developed for the U.S. government and will beseveral orders of magnitude smaller. Eventually the microminiaturizedMEMS sources 122 will be smaller than the eye can see. Therefore dozens,hundreds and even thousands of the light-emitting sources 122 will beable to be contained in package 1210 or package 1220.

FIG. 12 (FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C) is a cutaway view of a mortar projectile(mortar 1300). FIG. 12A is a cutaway view of mortar 1300 containingpackages 1210 which is surrounded by sticky material 1212. FIG. 12B is acutaway view of a mortar 1300 containing package 1220 that is surroundedby sticky material 1212. A side view of the plastic or composite spider1221 is shown. The glass vials 1222 side into and are held apart byholes in the spider.

FIG. 12C is an exploded cutaway view before assembly of a mortar 1300that can carry packages 1210 or package 1220 to the target to be marked.The mortar 1300 comprised a steel or aluminum or plastic or compositeback end 1315, a transparent or translucent plastic or composite body1310, and a plastic or composite nose 1305. Packages 1210 or package1220 can be placed into the body 1310 and then epoxied or threaded (notshown) to the back end 1315.

The sticky material 1212 can then be added to the projectile at the openend on the top of body 1310. The cap 1305 is then epoxied or threaded(not shown) to the body 1310 to complete the assembly of mortar 1300. Ifthe user of the mortar 1300 wants a mark and trace capability then body1310 and nose 1305 should be transparent or translucent. A transparentor translucent back end 1315 is optional and would enhance theobservation of the tracer. If the user wants marking with no trace thenthe back end 1315, body 1310, and nose 1305 should be made of opaquematerial or painted so that light does not come through the projectileduring flight.

Upon gun launch, the packages 1210 or package 1220 rupture or shatterallowing the contents comprising the light-emitting sources 122 andsticky material 1212 to mix. The light-emitting sources 122 are providedpower by setback-activated battery 600C and begin operation, emittinglight. If the projectile is transparent or translucent, a trace of theflight is seen by an observer due to the high intensity light from thelight-emitting sources 122. If the project is opaque, there is no trace.

Upon impact of mortar 1300 with the target, the plastic or composite ofthe mortar 1300 shatters and deposits the light-emitting sources 122covered with the sticky material 1212 onto the target. The highintensity light from the light-emitting sources 122 now marks the targetin UV and/or visible, and/or IR light. Soldiers with night visiondevices can now see the UV and IR light. Missiles and smart projectilesequipped with sensors and seekers set to detect the wavelengths of thelight-emitting sources 122 can now see the marked target and travel toit.

FIG. 13 (FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C) is a cutaway view of a 40 mm projectile1400 (projectile 1400). FIG. 13A is a cutaway view of projectile 1400containing package 1210 that is surrounded by sticky material 1212. FIG.13B is a cutaway view of projectile 1400 containing package 1220 that issurrounded by sticky material 1212.

FIG. 13C is an exploded cutaway view before assembly of projectile 1400that can carry the packages 1210 or package 1220 to the target to bemarked. The projectile 1400 comprises a steel, aluminum, plastic, orcomposite back end 1420 and a transparent or translucent plastic orcomposite windshield 1410.

The packages 1210 or package 1220 and sticky material 1212 may be placedinto the windshield 1410 and then epoxied or threaded (not shown) to theback end 1420. If the user of the projectile 1400 wants a mark and tracecapability then windshield 1410 may to be transparent or translucent. Ifthe user wants marking with no trace then the windshield 1410 should bemade of opaque material or painted so that light does not come throughthe projectile during flight.

Upon gun launch, the containers 1210 or 1220 rupture or shatter allowingthe contents 122 and 1212 to mix. The light-emitting sources areprovided power by setback-activated battery 600C and begin operation,emitting light. If the projectile is transparent or translucent, a traceof the flight is seen by an observer due to the high intensity lightfrom the light-emitting sources 122.

If the project is opaque there is no trace. Upon impact of projectile1400 with the target, the plastic or composite of the projectile 1400shatters and deposits the light-emitting sources 122 covered with thesticky material 1212 onto the target. The high intensity light from thelight-emitting sources 122 now marks the target in UV, visible, and/orIR light. Soldiers with night vision devices can now see the UV and IRlight. Missiles and smart projectiles equipped with sensors and seekersset to detect the wavelengths of the light-emitting sources 122 can nowsee the marked target and travel to it.

FIG. 14 (FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C) is a cutaway view of a tank or artilleryprojectile 1500 (projectile 1500). FIG. 14A is a cutaway view ofprojectile 1500 containing package 1210 that is surrounded by stickymaterial 1212. FIG. 14B is a cutaway view of projectile 1500 containingpackage 1220 that is surrounded by sticky material 1212.

FIG. 14C is an exploded cutaway view before assembly of projectile 1500that can carry the packages 1210 and package 1220 to the target to bemarked. The projectile 1500 comprises a steel, aluminum, plastic, orcomposite back end 1530, a transparent or translucent plastic orcomposite body 1520 and a plastic or composite nose 1510 (nose 1510).The package 1210 or package 1220 may be placed into the body 1520 andthen epoxied or threaded (not shown) to the back end 1530.

The sticky material 1212 can then be added to the projectile at the openend on the top of body 1520. The nose 1510 is then epoxied or threaded(not shown) to the body 1520 to complete the assembly of projectile1500. If the user of the projectile 1500 wants a mark and tracecapability then back end 1530 and body 1520 should be transparent ortranslucent. If the user wants marking with no trace then the back end1530, body 1520 and nose 1510 should be made of opaque material orpainted so that light does not come through the projectile duringflight.

Upon gun launch, the packages 1210 or package 1220 rupture or shatterallowing the light-emitting source 122 and sticky material 1212 to mix.The light-emitting sources 122 are provided power by setback-activatedbattery 600C and being operation, emitting light. If the projectile 1500is transparent or translucent, a trace of the flight is seen by anobserver due to the high intensity light from the light-emitting sources122.

If the projectile 1500 is opaque, there is no trace. Upon impact ofprojectile 1500 with the target, the plastic or composite of theprojectile 1500 shatters and deposits the light-emitting sources 122covered with the sticky material 1212 onto the target. The highintensity light from the light-emitting sources 122 now marks the targetin UV, and/or visible, and/or IR light. Soldiers with night visiondevices can now see the UV and/or IR light. Missiles and smartprojectiles equipped with sensors and seekers set to detect thewavelengths of the light-emitting sources 122 can now see the markedtarget and travel to it.

All drawings are illustrative in nature and do not depict the actualsize or scale of the objects shown. It is to be understood that thespecific embodiments of the invention that have been described aremerely illustrative of certain applications of the principle of thepresent invention. Numerous modifications may be made to system andmethod for a flameless tracer utilizing electronic light sourceinvention described herein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention.

1. A flameless tracer utilizing an electronic light source, for use with a projectile, comprising: at least one G-hardened light source for emitting a light visible to an observer during a flight of the projectile; and a power source, connected to the light source, for selectively providing electrical power to the light source when the projectile is launched.
 2. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the visible light emitted by the light source comprises any one or more of: a visible light spectrum; an infrared spectrum; and an ultraviolet spectrum.
 3. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises at least one light-emitting diode.
 4. The flameless tracer of claim 1, further comprising a driver circuit that is electrically connected to the power source and the light source, for providing a plurality of pulses at different frequencies and intensities to the light source during the projectile flight.
 5. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the power supply comprises a setback-activated battery.
 6. The flameless tracer of claim 5, wherein the activation of the setback-activated battery occurs as a result of a high force applied to the setback-activated battery during the projectile launch.
 7. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the electronic light source comprises a plurality of miniaturized electronic light sources.
 8. The flameless tracer of claim 7, wherein the plurality of the miniaturized electronic light sources are suspended in a gelatin-like substance.
 9. The flameless tracer of claim 8, wherein the miniaturized electronic light sources are dispersed at a target upon impact, illuminating the target.
 10. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the electronic light source is encased in a substance to harden the electronic light source for use in a high-force environment.
 11. The flameless tracer of claim 1, further comprising a light-dispersing device that disperses the visible light created by the light source to enhance visibility of the projectile to the observer.
 12. The flameless tracer of claim 11, wherein the light-dispersing device comprises a protective cap.
 13. The flameless tracer of claim 11, wherein the light-dispersing device is made of any of a composite or plastic material.
 14. The flameless tracer of claim 11, wherein the light-dispersing device is made of any of a transparent or a translucent material.
 15. The flameless tracer of claim 11, wherein the light-dispersing device comprises any one or more of a reflector and a mirror.
 16. The flameless tracer of claim 11, wherein the light-dispersing device is made of any of a composite material, a plastic material, a transparent, or a translucent material, and comprises any one or more of a reflector and a mirror.
 17. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of light sources, at least some of light sources emitting non-visible light that is detectable by an instrument.
 18. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of light sources, at least some of light sources emitting visible light at different wavelengths.
 19. The flameless tracer of claim 3, wherein the light-emitting diode comprises a laser diode.
 20. The flameless tracer of claim 1, wherein the projectile comprises a rear end and a side.
 21. The flameless tracer of claim 20, wherein the tracer is disposed on the rear end of the projectile.
 22. The flameless tracer of claim 20, wherein the tracer is disposed on the side of the projectile.
 23. The flameless tracer of claim 20, wherein the tracer is disposed on the rear end and the side of the projectile.
 24. A marker for use with a projectile, comprising: a light-emitting device; an energy source attached to the light-emitting device; wherein upon any of a set back, a set forward, or a spin, the energy source is activated; and wherein the light-emitting device starts emitting a tracing light upon the projectile impacting a target.
 25. The marker of claim 24, wherein upon the projectile impacting the target, the projectile shatters, allowing the light emitting device to be dispersed over the target.
 26. The marker of claim 25, wherein the light-emitting device comprises any one or more of: an LED, a laser diode, a strobe, a miniature light source, a microminiaturized light source, a photoelectric diode, a micro-eletrical-mechanical device (MEM).
 27. The marker of claim 25, wherein the light-emitting device is mixed with a sticky substance, wherein upon the projectile impacting the target, the sticky substance disperses over the target, causing the light-emitting device to adhere on the target.
 28. The marker of claim 27, wherein the sticky substance is made, at least in part, of silicone.
 29. The marker of claim 24, wherein the projectile is made at least in part, of a transparent material, allowing the light emitting device to trace a projectile flight path in addition to marking the target.
 30. The marker of claim 24, wherein the projectile is made at least in part, of a translucent material, allowing the light emitting device to trace a projectile flight path in addition to marking the target.
 31. The marker of claim 24, wherein the light-emitting device comprises any one or more of: a visible light spectrum; an infrared spectrum; and an ultraviolet spectrum. 